When someone sustains a spinal cord injury, it is important that they see a doctor as soon as possible. Spinal cord injuries can be very serious and can have devastating consequences. Someone with a spinal cord injury could be at risk of death, depending on their situation. Even if they survive, the likelihood of them facing a lifelong disability due to the trauma is likely. If your loved one recently sustained a spinal cord injury, you are probably wondering what their prognosis is. Of course, a doctor can give you an accurate prognosis for your loved one’s particular situation. However, on this page, I will discuss some common prognosis options for those suffering a spinal cord injury. This might give you a general idea of what your loved one may face. However, keep in mind that this information does not substitute for a doctor’s opinion. You should contact a doctor if your loved one has a spinal cord injury.
Prognosis Based on Level of Injury
The consequences of a spinal cord injury can vary greatly on your loved one’s particular situation, as well as where in the spinal cord they sustained an injury. However, generally speaking, most of a person’s recovery from a spinal cord injury will occur in the first six months after their accident. Additional recovery after the initial six months is usually marginal.
The level of injury in a spinal cord accident will determine which body parts are affected. A doctor will determine if your loved one has suffered a complete injury or an incomplete injury. A complete injury means that they will have total loss of sensation and movement below the injury site. An incomplete injury means that they may retain or regain partial movement below the injury site.
Levels of injury get classified as follows:
- T-1 to T-8
- T-9 to T-12
- Neck
- C-1 to C-4
- C-5
- C-6
- C-7 and T-1
Common Symptoms/Side Effects
Loss of movement and loss of sensation are the most common results of a spinal cord injury. However, a person may face additional issues, including:
- Inability to regulate blood pressure
- Low blood pressure
- Bowel and bladder dysfunction
- Infertility for men
- Sexual dysfunction
- Chronic pain
- Inability to regulate body temperature
- Inability to sweat
Importance of Early Treatment
The extent of a person’s injuries as well as their prognosis will depend on the severity of their accident, the level of injury, and how quickly they are able to get treatment. Because of this, it is important that you seek treatment for your loved one as soon as possible after they sustain a spinal cord injury.
For more information about spinal cord injuries, you can refer to the other pages on this website. You can also contact my office for help – I am happy to assist you as you seek help for your loved one and for your entire family. Remember that this page does not represent medical advice regarding your loved one’s condition. Take them to a hospital and talk to a doctor to learn more about their personal prognosis.
